(d.c.249) Apollonia, who was perceived to be a leader in the Christian community, was seized during an anti-Christian uprising. This patroness of dentistry and those suffering from dental problems had all of her teeth broken and was offered to be burned at the stake or to blaspheme God. She chose martyrdom.
The witness of Saint Apollonia can inspire us in our courage in the face of trial or temptation. She reminds us that we may have set up idols in our lives that we need to formally reject. In all of these, her witness challenges us to claim our identity in Christ. That is the true source of our strength. He is powerful where we are not (Step 1), He can restore sanity (Step 2), and we make a decision to turn our will and our life over to His care (Step 3). Can you identify a time in recovery when reliance on God gave you the ability to do what you otherwise would have chosen not to do?
“I am a Christian and I love and serve the true God” (Saint Apollonia, when asked what her name is by her persecutors).
Reflection by Brad Farmer